News Release
Two Canadian soldiers killed, a number of ISAF forces injured in AfghanistanCEFCOM NR–06.028 - October 3, 2006
OTTAWA - Two Canadian soldiers were killed and a number of
International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) troops were injured
today when ISAF forces operating in the Panjwayi area were attacked by
mortars, rocket propelled grenades and small arms fire. The attack
occurred at approximately 4:50 p.m. Kandahar time, about 20 km west of
Kandahar City as ISAF forces worked to clear a route of mines and
improvised explosive devices for a future road construction project. A
number of ISAF soldiers, including Canadians suffered injuries in the
attack. All of the injured Canadian soldiers have non-life threatening
injuries. They are being treated at the Canadian-led multinational
hospital at Kandahar Airfield.
The Canadian soldiers killed in today's attack in Afghanistan are
Sergeant Craig Paul Gillam and Corporal Robert Thomas James Mitchell,
both members of the Royal Canadian Dragoons, based in Petawawa ,
Ontario .
The ISAF forces were in Panjwayi district, Kandahar Province , to
help bring security and normalcy to the area after Canadian, Afghan and
international forces successfully forced out Taliban insurgents from
the area. The insurgents had previously caused civilians to flee the
area due to threats, intimidation and violence.
Canadian troops are in Afghanistan to help the Afghan people rebuild
their social and civil infrastructure. Taliban attacks will not deter
Canadian efforts to help Afghanistan achieve peace and stability in a
free and democratic society.
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A photograph of the fallen soldiers is available on the Combat Camera website (search under last names) at: http://www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca/ |